How to Alter a Flared Dress: A Step-by-Step Guide
Flared dresses are a timeless fashion staple that adds a touch of elegance and flair to any outfit. However, if you find that your flared dress doesn’t fit quite right, don’t worry; altering it is a straightforward process that can be done at home with minimal effort. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to alter a flared dress to ensure it fits perfectly and flatters your figure.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before you begin, gather all the necessary materials and tools. You’ll need a pair of fabric scissors, pins, a ruler or measuring tape, a needle, and thread that matches your dress. If you’re not confident in your sewing skills, consider using a sewing machine for a cleaner finish.
Step 2: Measure Your Dress
Take precise measurements of your dress to determine where alterations are needed. Measure the waist, hip, and hem of the dress, as well as the length from the waist to the hem. This will help you understand how much fabric needs to be removed or added.
Step 3: Determine the Alteration Type
Based on your measurements, decide whether you need to take in the waist, hip, or hem of the dress. If the dress is too tight, you’ll need to take it in; if it’s too loose, you’ll need to let it out. Additionally, if the dress is too long, you’ll need to shorten it.
Step 4: Take In the Waist or Hip
If the dress is too tight at the waist or hip, fold the excess fabric inside the dress and pin it in place. Make sure to leave enough room for your body to move comfortably. Once the excess fabric is pinned, sew along the pinned line, removing the pins as you go. Repeat this process on the other side.
Step 5: Let Out the Waist or Hip
If the dress is too loose at the waist or hip, fold the excess fabric outside the dress and pin it in place. This will create a pleat that will add fullness to the dress. Once the excess fabric is pinned, sew along the pinned line, removing the pins as you go. Repeat this process on the other side.
Step 6: Shorten the Hem
If the dress is too long, fold the hem up to the desired length and pin it in place. Make sure to leave a seam allowance for hemming. Once the hem is pinned, sew along the pinned line, removing the pins as you go. Repeat this process on the other side.
Step 7: Hem the Dress
After making all the necessary alterations, it’s time to hem the dress. Fold the hem up to the desired length, press it with an iron, and pin it in place. Sew along the pinned line, removing the pins as you go. Repeat this process on the other side.
Step 8: Try On the Dress
Once the alterations are complete, try on the dress to ensure that it fits perfectly. Make any final adjustments if needed.
Conclusion
Altering a flared dress is a simple and rewarding process that can transform your wardrobe. By following these steps, you can easily make your dress fit like a glove and enjoy its timeless elegance. Happy altering!
